Imperial Russia: A Two-Week Journey Through History & Culture

From Moscow's Red Square to St. Petersburg's Palaces

Trip Overview

This comprehensive two-week journey explores Russia's most magnificent imperial cities and cultural treasures. Begin in Moscow, discovering the Kremlin's secrets and world-class art collections before traveling to historic Kazan to experience Tatar culture. The journey culminates in St. Petersburg, Russia's cultural capital, where you'll explore opulent palaces, world-renowned museums, and grand architecture. This itinerary balances iconic landmarks with immersive cultural experiences, including traditional cuisine, vodka tastings, and insights into Russia's space exploration history. The pace allows time to truly appreciate each city's unique character while covering essential highlights. You'll experience the grandeur of imperial Russia alongside contemporary Russian life, creating a rich understanding of this vast nation's complexity and beauty.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$80-120 per day
Best Seasons
May to September for pleasant weather, or December to February for winter wonderland experience
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Russia, History and art enthusiasts, Culture lovers, Photography enthusiasts, Solo travelers and couples

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & The Heart of Moscow

Arrive in Moscow and begin your Russian adventure at the iconic Red Square, followed by an introduction to the historic Kremlin complex.
Morning
Arrival and Red Square exploration
After settling into your accommodation, head to Red Square, Russia's most famous plaza. Marvel at the colorful domes of St. Basil's Cathedral, photograph the historic GUM department store, and soak in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk the cobblestones where centuries of Russian history unfolded.
2-3 hours $0 (exterior viewing)
Lunch
A traditional Russian restaurant near Red Square
Russian classics like borscht and pelmeni Mid-range
Afternoon
St. Basil's Cathedral interior visit
Enter the whimsical St. Basil's Cathedral to explore its maze-like interior of nine chapels, each uniquely decorated with frescoes and icons. Learn about Ivan the Terrible's commission of this architectural masterpiece. The narrow corridors and vibrant paintings create an otherworldly atmosphere that captures Russian Orthodox artistry at its finest.
1-2 hours $10-15
Purchase tickets on-site; arrive early afternoon to avoid crowds
Evening
Evening stroll and dinner
Walk along the illuminated Red Square at dusk, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring live Russian folk music

Where to Stay Tonight

Kitai-Gorod or near Red Square (Mid-range hotel within walking distance of major sites)

Central location allows easy access to Moscow's historic core and minimizes transportation needs

Download offline maps and bring a portable charger—you'll be taking countless photos at Red Square
Day 1 Budget: $90-130
2

Inside the Kremlin Walls

Dedicate today to exploring The Moscow Kremlin and its extraordinary Armoury Chamber collection.
Morning
The Moscow Kremlin tour
Enter the fortified complex that has been Russia's power center for centuries. Explore the Cathedral Square with its golden-domed churches, view the Tsar Bell and Tsar Cannon, and walk the grounds where Russian leaders have governed. The Kremlin's architecture blends religious and political symbolism, offering insights into Russian history from medieval times to the present.
2-3 hours $15-20
Book tickets online in advance; bring your passport as it's required for entry
Lunch
A cafe in Alexander Garden, adjacent to the Kremlin
Light Russian fare and European options Mid-range
Afternoon
Armoury Chamber visit
Explore one of the world's finest collections of royal treasures in the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber. View Fabergé eggs, imperial coronation robes, Catherine the Great's wedding dress, ornate thrones, and an incredible collection of carriages and weaponry. Each room reveals the extraordinary wealth and craftsmanship of the Russian imperial court.
2 hours $20-25
Book a specific time slot online well in advance; sessions are limited and sell out quickly
Evening
Moscow River cruise and dinner
Take an evening river cruise for illuminated views of the Kremlin, then dine at a restaurant with river views

Where to Stay Tonight

Kitai-Gorod or near Red Square (Same accommodation as Day 1)

Staying in the same location maximizes exploration time and comfort

The Armoury Chamber doesn't allow photography, so take your time to truly absorb each exhibit
Day 2 Budget: $95-140
3

Art & Aristocratic Estates

Immerse yourself in Russian fine art at the Tretyakov Gallery and explore the opulent Kuskovo Estate.
Morning
The State Tretyakov Gallery
Discover Russia's premier collection of national art, from medieval icons to 20th-century masterpieces. See Andrei Rublev's Trinity, Ilya Repin's powerful works, and the haunting paintings of the Wanderers movement. The gallery provides essential context for understanding Russian cultural identity through its visual arts spanning eight centuries.
3 hours $12-18
Book tickets online to skip queues; consider an audio guide for deeper insights
Lunch
A Georgian restaurant in the Zamoskvorechye district
Georgian khachapuri and khinkali Mid-range
Afternoon
Kuskovo Estate Museum exploration
Visit this 18th-century summer residence of the Sheremetev family, known as the 'Russian Versailles.' Wander through the magnificent palace filled with original furnishings, explore the formal French gardens, visit the grotto pavilion decorated with shells, and admire the orangery. The estate offers a glimpse into aristocratic life during Russia's golden age.
2-3 hours $8-12
Evening
Dinner and evening in Arbat district
Explore the pedestrian Old Arbat street with its street performers and souvenir shops, then enjoy dinner at a cozy local eatery

Where to Stay Tonight

Kitai-Gorod or near Red Square (Same accommodation)

Final night in central Moscow before tomorrow's day trip

Kuskovo is best visited in good weather to enjoy the extensive gardens; bring comfortable walking shoes
Day 3 Budget: $85-125
4

Royal Splendor at Tsaritsyno

Explore the romantic Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve and delve into Russia's space exploration achievements.
Morning
Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve
Discover Catherine the Great's unfinished palace complex, a masterpiece of Russian Gothic architecture. Explore the restored Grand Palace with its ornate halls and exhibitions, wander through the landscaped park with its picturesque bridges and pavilions, and visit the greenhouse complex. The estate combines architectural beauty with natural landscapes, creating a romantic atmosphere perfect for photography.
3-4 hours $10-15
Lunch
A cafe within the Tsaritsyno park complex
Russian and European casual dining Budget
Afternoon
Museum of Cosmonautics visit
Journey through Russia's space exploration history at this fascinating museum near VDNKh. See Yuri Gagarin's capsule, spacesuits worn by cosmonauts, actual spacecraft, and interactive exhibits about life in space. The museum celebrates Soviet and Russian achievements in the space race and offers inspiring insights into humanity's cosmic ambitions.
2-3 hours $8-12
Evening
Farewell Moscow dinner
Celebrate your Moscow experience with dinner at an upscale restaurant featuring modern Russian cuisine

Where to Stay Tonight

Kitai-Gorod or near Red Square (Same accommodation)

Convenient for early departure to Kazan tomorrow

The VDNKh park surrounding the Museum of Cosmonautics is worth exploring, with Soviet-era pavilions and fountains
Day 4 Budget: $80-120
5

Journey to Kazan

Moscow to Kazan
Travel to Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, and begin exploring this unique blend of Russian and Tatar cultures.
Morning
Train journey to Kazan
Board a high-speed train from Moscow to Kazan, covering approximately 800 kilometers in about 11 hours on regular trains or 8 hours on faster services. Use this travel time to rest, enjoy the changing landscapes of central Russia, and prepare for your introduction to Tatar culture. The journey itself offers glimpses of Russian countryside and small towns.
8-11 hours $40-80
Book train tickets well in advance for better prices and seat selection; overnight trains are available
Lunch
Dining car on the train or packed lunch
Russian train food or prepared meals Budget
Afternoon
Arrival and initial Kazan exploration
Arrive in Kazan and check into your accommodation. Take an orientation walk through the city center, getting your first impressions of this fascinating city where minarets stand alongside Orthodox church domes. Visit the pedestrian Bauman Street, Kazan's main thoroughfare, filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.
2-3 hours $0
Evening
Tatar cuisine introduction
Enjoy your first Tatar dinner, trying local specialties like echpochmak (meat pies) and chak-chak (honey dessert)

Where to Stay Tonight

Near Bauman Street or Kremlin (Mid-range hotel in the historic center)

Central location provides easy access to Kazan's main attractions

Kazan is bilingual—signs appear in both Russian and Tatar, reflecting the city's multicultural identity
Day 5 Budget: $90-140
6

The Kazan Kremlin

Kazan
Explore the magnificent Kazan Kremlin, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing the harmonious coexistence of different cultures.
Morning
Kazan Kremlin comprehensive tour
Explore this unique fortress where Islamic and Christian architecture stand side by side. Visit the stunning Qol Sharif Mosque with its turquoise domes, the Orthodox Annunciation Cathedral, and the leaning Soyembika Tower shrouded in legend. Walk the white limestone walls and learn how this site represents centuries of cultural convergence between Tatar and Russian civilizations.
3-4 hours $5-10
Lunch
A traditional Tatar restaurant near the Kremlin
Tatar specialties including horse meat dishes and pilaf Mid-range
Afternoon
Kremlin museums exploration
Visit museums within the Kazan Kremlin complex, including the Museum of Natural History with its mineral collections and the Hermitage-Kazan exhibition center. Climb to viewpoints for panoramic views of the Kazanka River and modern Kazan skyline, creating striking contrasts between ancient and contemporary architecture.
2-3 hours $8-12
Evening
Evening river walk and dinner
Stroll along the Kazanka River embankment to see the illuminated Kremlin and modern Kazan Family Center, then enjoy dinner with river views

Where to Stay Tonight

Near Bauman Street or Kremlin (Same accommodation as Day 5)

Convenient location for continued Kazan exploration

Visit the Qol Sharif Mosque during prayer times to hear the call to prayer echoing across the Kremlin—a moving cultural experience
Day 6 Budget: $75-110
7

Kazan to St. Petersburg

Travel from Kazan to St. Petersburg and settle into Russia's imperial capital for the second week of your journey.
Morning
Morning in Kazan and departure
Enjoy a final morning walk through Kazan, perhaps visiting any sites you missed or returning to favorites. Pick up some Tatar sweets like chak-chak as souvenirs. Depart for the airport or train station for your journey to St. Petersburg, carrying memories of Tatarstan's unique cultural blend.
2-3 hours $5-10
Lunch
Airport or train station dining before departure
Quick Russian or international options Budget
Afternoon
Travel to St. Petersburg
Fly to St. Petersburg (approximately 2 hours) or take a train journey (around 24 hours). Flying is recommended to maximize time in St. Petersburg. Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation and rest after the journey. Take an evening orientation walk if energy permits, getting your first glimpses of the imperial architecture.
4-6 hours including transfers $80-150 (flight) or $50-90 (train)
Book flights in advance for best prices; consider early morning flights to maximize the day
Evening
Arrival and first impressions
Settle into your St. Petersburg accommodation and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a nearby restaurant, preparing for a week of imperial splendor

Where to Stay Tonight

Nevsky Prospekt or historic center (Mid-range hotel near major attractions)

Central location on or near Nevsky Prospekt provides access to most major sites

St. Petersburg's White Nights (late May-July) mean nearly 24-hour daylight—bring an eye mask for sleeping
Day 7 Budget: $120-180
8

Hermitage Masterpieces

Dedicate the day to exploring the State Hermitage Museum, one of the world's greatest art collections housed in the magnificent Winter Palace.
Morning
State Hermitage Museum - Main Collections
Begin your exploration of this vast museum complex in the Winter Palace, former residence of Russian tsars. Navigate the opulent state rooms with their gilded decorations and stunning parquet floors while viewing masterpieces by Leonardo, Rembrandt, and Rubens. The sheer scale and quality of the collection—over 3 million items—makes this one of the world's premier museums.
3-4 hours $18-25
Book tickets online to skip long queues; arrive when doors open for fewer crowds
Lunch
A cafe near Palace Square or within the museum
European and Russian light meals Mid-range
Afternoon
Winter Palace and additional Hermitage buildings
Continue exploring the Winter Palace's magnificent interiors, including the Jordan Staircase, Malachite Room, and Pavilion Hall. If time permits, visit the neighboring General Staff Building for Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. The Winter Palace itself is an artwork, with each room representing different periods of Russian imperial taste.
2-3 hours Included in morning ticket
Evening
Palace Square and Nevsky Prospekt
Watch the sunset over Palace Square, then stroll down Nevsky Prospekt for dinner and evening atmosphere at St. Petersburg's main boulevard

Where to Stay Tonight

Nevsky Prospekt or historic center (Same accommodation)

Convenient for continued exploration of central St. Petersburg

The Hermitage is impossible to see in one day—focus on specific collections or periods that interest you most
Day 8 Budget: $85-125
9

Peter's Fortress & Russian Art

Explore the Peter and Paul Fortress where St. Petersburg began, then discover Russian art at the State Russian Museum.
Morning
Peter and Paul Fortress exploration
Visit the birthplace of St. Petersburg on Hare Island. Explore the fortress walls with panoramic city views, visit the Peter and Paul Cathedral with its golden spire containing the tombs of Russian emperors from Peter the Great to Nicholas II, and learn about the fortress's history as a political prison. The noon cannon still fires daily, a tradition since 1873.
2-3 hours $10-15
Lunch
A cafe on Petrograd Side near the fortress
Russian and European casual dining Mid-range
Afternoon
The State Russian Museum, Mikhailovsky Palace
Discover the world's largest collection of Russian fine art in the beautiful Mikhailovsky Palace. See works spanning from ancient icons to avant-garde masterpieces by Kandinsky and Malevich. The collection provides comprehensive insights into Russian artistic movements and complements what you saw at the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, focusing on different periods and styles.
2-3 hours $12-18
Purchase tickets online; the museum is less crowded than the Hermitage
Evening
Canal boat cruise and dinner
Take an evening boat tour through St. Petersburg's canals and rivers, seeing the city from the water, followed by dinner in the historic center

Where to Stay Tonight

Nevsky Prospekt or historic center (Same accommodation)

Central location continues to be ideal for daily explorations

The Peter and Paul Cathedral's noon cannon firing is a daily tradition—time your visit to witness this historical moment
Day 9 Budget: $90-130
10

Peterhof Palace & Gardens

St. Petersburg (Peterhof)
Journey to Peterhof Palace, Peter the Great's spectacular seaside residence known as the 'Russian Versailles.'
Morning
Peterhof Palace Grand Palace tour
Explore Peter the Great's magnificent summer residence overlooking the Gulf of Finland. Tour the Grand Palace's lavishly decorated rooms showcasing imperial opulence, including the Throne Room and Portrait Gallery. Each room displays exquisite craftsmanship in gold leaf, silk wall coverings, and intricate parquet floors, reflecting the ambitions of Russia's most transformative tsar.
1.5-2 hours $15-20
Book palace tickets in advance online; arrive early as it gets very crowded
Lunch
A restaurant within the Peterhof park complex
Russian and European cuisine with garden views Mid-range
Afternoon
Peterhof Palace Lower Park and fountains
Spend the afternoon exploring the magnificent Lower Park with its 150 fountains and cascades. Marvel at the Grand Cascade with its 64 fountains and golden statues leading down to the sea, discover hidden trick fountains that spray unsuspecting visitors, and wander through manicured gardens and pavilions. The fountain system, operating without pumps using natural pressure, is an engineering marvel.
3-4 hours $12-15
Fountains operate from late April to mid-October; visit during this season for the full experience
Evening
Return to St. Petersburg
Take the hydrofoil back to St. Petersburg across the Gulf of Finland (summer only) for scenic views, then enjoy dinner in the city center

Where to Stay Tonight

Nevsky Prospekt or historic center (Same accommodation)

Return to your central St. Petersburg base

Take the hydrofoil from St. Petersburg to Peterhof in summer for a scenic 30-minute journey across the gulf
Day 10 Budget: $95-140
11

Cathedral Splendor & Fabergé Treasures

Visit the magnificent St. Isaac's Cathedral and explore the world's finest collection of Fabergé eggs.
Morning
St. Isaac's Cathedral visit and colonnade climb
Explore one of the world's largest cathedrals, adorned with columns of malachite and lapis lazuli, stunning mosaics, and a magnificent gilded dome. Climb the 262 steps to the colonnade surrounding the dome for breathtaking 360-degree views of St. Petersburg's skyline. The cathedral's construction took 40 years and represents the pinnacle of 19th-century Russian architecture.
2-3 hours $10-15
Buy tickets on-site; the colonnade climb requires moderate fitness
Lunch
A cafe near St. Isaac's Square
European and Russian cuisine with cathedral views Mid-range
Afternoon
Faberge Museum exploration
Visit the Shuvalov Palace housing the world's largest Fabergé collection, including nine imperial Easter eggs. Marvel at these exquisite jeweled masterpieces created for the Romanov family, along with other decorative arts, jewelry, and objects showcasing the pinnacle of Russian craftsmanship. Each egg tells a story and demonstrates extraordinary artistry and technical skill.
2 hours $15-20
Book tickets online in advance; audio guides provide valuable context
Evening
Russian ballet or opera performance
Attend a performance at the Mariinsky Theatre or Mikhailovsky Theatre for a quintessential St. Petersburg cultural experience

Where to Stay Tonight

Nevsky Prospekt or historic center (Same accommodation)

Convenient location for final days in St. Petersburg

Book ballet or opera tickets well in advance online—performances often sell out, especially during summer
Day 11 Budget: $100-160
12

Grand Maket & Vodka Heritage

Discover Russia in miniature at Grand Maket Russia and learn about vodka's cultural significance.
Morning
Grand Maket Russia visit
Experience all of Russia in one room at this incredible miniature model spanning 800 square meters. Watch day turn to night every 13 minutes as tiny lights illuminate cities, trains move along tracks, and scenes from Russian life play out in intricate detail. The model showcases Russia's vast geography from Kaliningrad to Vladivostok, offering perspective on the country's immense scale and diversity.
2-3 hours $12-15
Lunch
A restaurant in the city center
Modern Russian cuisine Mid-range
Afternoon
Museum of Russian Vodka
Learn about Russia's most famous export at this museum dedicated to vodka's history and cultural significance. Discover the drink's origins, see historical bottles and distilling equipment, and understand vodka's role in Russian society through the centuries. The museum offers tastings of various vodka styles, teaching proper Russian drinking traditions and etiquette.
1-2 hours $10-15 including tasting
Evening
Farewell dinner on Nevsky Prospekt
Celebrate your Russian journey with a special dinner at an upscale restaurant featuring contemporary Russian cuisine and live music

Where to Stay Tonight

Nevsky Prospekt or historic center (Same accommodation)

Final nights in St. Petersburg before departure

Grand Maket Russia is particularly enjoyable for families and photography enthusiasts—bring your camera
Day 12 Budget: $85-130
13

The Pushkin Museum & Leisure

Visit The Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts and enjoy leisure time for final explorations or shopping.
Morning
The Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts
Explore this excellent museum's collection of European and Russian art, including works from ancient civilizations, Renaissance masters, and modern artists. The museum offers a more intimate experience than the massive Hermitage, with carefully curated exhibitions that provide context and depth. Special exhibitions often feature international loans and thematic displays worth checking in advance.
2-3 hours $10-15
Check the museum's website for current special exhibitions
Lunch
A cafe in the Arts Square area
European and Russian light meals Mid-range
Afternoon
Leisure time and final explorations
Spend the afternoon revisiting favorite spots, shopping for souvenirs on Nevsky Prospekt or at the Gostiny Dvor, or exploring neighborhoods you haven't yet visited. Consider visiting a traditional Russian banya (bathhouse) for an authentic cultural experience, or simply relax in one of St. Petersburg's many parks and gardens.
3-4 hours $20-40
Evening
Final evening in St. Petersburg
Take a sunset walk along the Neva River embankment, watch the opening of the Palace Bridge if visiting in summer, and enjoy a final Russian dinner

Where to Stay Tonight

Nevsky Prospekt or historic center (Same accommodation)

Final night before departure

During White Nights season (late May-July), the drawbridges open around 1-2 AM—a spectacular sight worth staying up for
Day 13 Budget: $80-120
14

Departure Day

Final morning in St. Petersburg before departure, with time for last-minute activities or relaxation.
Morning
Final morning and departure preparations
Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast and pack your souvenirs, including Russian chocolates, matryoshka dolls, and perhaps some amber jewelry. If time permits before your flight, take a final walk through the Summer Garden or along the canals, soaking in the atmosphere of this magnificent city. Reflect on two weeks of imperial palaces, world-class art, and Russian culture.
2-3 hours $10-20
Lunch
Airport dining or early lunch in the city before departure
Quick Russian or international options Budget
Afternoon
Airport transfer and departure
Transfer to Pulkovo Airport with plenty of time for international flight check-in and security. St. Petersburg's airport is well-connected to the city center by bus, taxi, or arranged transfer. Depart Russia with memories of imperial grandeur, artistic masterpieces, and the warmth of Russian hospitality despite language barriers.
Variable based on flight time $15-30 for airport transfer
Allow at least 3 hours before international flights for check-in and security
Evening
Departure
International flight home or onward destination

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (N/A)

Departure day

Keep some rubles for airport purchases, but most vendors accept cards; save a few coins as souvenirs
Day 14 Budget: $50-90

Practical Information

Getting Around

In Moscow and St. Petersburg, use the excellent metro systems—efficient, cheap, and stations are architectural attractions themselves. Download Yandex Metro app for navigation. Between cities, book trains through RZD (Russian Railways) or domestic flights. For Peterhof, take the hydrofoil in summer or suburban train year-round. Taxis are affordable via Yandex Taxi app. Consider purchasing a Troika card in Moscow or Podorozhnik card in St. Petersburg for convenient metro travel. Most attractions are walkable in city centers, making comfortable shoes essential.

Book Ahead

Book these well ahead: Russian visa (apply 6-8 weeks before travel), Armoury Chamber tickets (2-4 weeks), Peterhof Grand Palace (1-2 weeks), Hermitage tickets (online to skip queues), ballet/opera performances (2-4 weeks), train tickets between cities (2-3 weeks for best prices), and accommodation during peak season (May-September). Museum tickets can often be purchased online 1-2 weeks ahead.

Packing Essentials

Valid passport with Russian visa, photocopies of documents, visa invitation letter, travel insurance, Russian phrasebook or translation app, power adapter (Type C/F European plugs), comfortable walking shoes, layers for variable weather, rain jacket, sunscreen and sunglasses (summer), warm coat and gloves (winter), small backpack for day trips, portable charger, and basic medications

Total Budget

$1,260-1,890 for 14 days (excluding international flights and visa fees)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels ($15-25/night) and use dormitory accommodation. Eat at stolovayas (canteen-style restaurants) for $3-5 meals. Buy museum tickets separately rather than combination passes, focusing on free exterior sightseeing. Use overnight trains between cities to save on accommodation. Skip guided tours in favor of free walking tours. Prepare picnic lunches from supermarkets. Take buses instead of taxis. Visit museums on free admission days (often monthly). Total budget: $50-70 per day.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at five-star hotels like the Four Seasons Moscow or Belmond Grand Hotel Europe St. Petersburg ($300-500/night). Book private guided tours of all major attractions with skip-the-line access. Dine at Michelin-recommended restaurants and enjoy Russian caviar tastings. Travel between cities by business class train or private car. Attend premium ballet performances in the best seats. Include a private evening Hermitage tour. Add helicopter tours over St. Petersburg. Arrange private hydrofoil to Peterhof. Total budget: $400-600 per day.

Family-Friendly

Include interactive experiences at Grand Maket Russia and Museum of Cosmonautics. Break up museum visits with park time and playground stops. Stay in family rooms or apartments with kitchens for flexible meal times. Visit Peterhof's trick fountains which children love. Add boat rides and metro exploration as activities. Choose restaurants with English menus and familiar options. Pack snacks and entertainment for train journeys. Consider shorter museum visits with focused highlights. Many museums offer family tickets and children's audio guides in English.

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